Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope,
patient in affliction,
persistent in prayer.
Persistence in prayer is not an uncommon happening in Scripture. Throughout the New Testament, we are encouraged to approach God faithfully, believing that He not only will answer our prayers, but that He already has.
According to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, persistence means:
- to be earnest towards
- to persevere, be constantly diligent (to a thing)
- to attend assiduously all the exercises (in a place)
- to adhere closely to [as a servitor] (to a person)
Earnest: resulting from or showing sincere and intense conviction; serious-minded
Persevere: persist, continue, carry on; continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little or no prospect of success
Diligent: steady, earnest and energetic effort; painstakingly
Assiduously: with great care and attention to detail
Adhere: stick fast to; believe in and follow the practices of; represent truthfully and in detail; cling to; hold fast; bond with, to
Persistent prayer is when we are more than thankful for our many blessings. It is praying to God even in the face of danger (Daniel). It is more than an obligation, it is a loving communication between God and us. God loves to be asked: He will not barge in where He is not wanted.
Revelation 3:20 God knocks on the door of our hearts and waits to be let in
Acts 1:14 pray in one accord [with one mind, united in thought]
Acts 6:4 give ourselves continually to prayer
1 Corinthians 15:58 be steadfast and immovable
Colossians 4:2 continue [earnestly] in prayer, being watchful and thankful
Let us join together in the unity of The Spirit and pray, that God's perfect will be accomplished in each of us and in His church.
